The Frenchman said: “His (Morais’) contract was written in a way that it would be terminated if we were relegated and we’ve respected the contract.

“We thought it was better to get the news out as soon as possible.

“He knew the contract when he signed. He knew the mission was to stay in the Championship and he knew relegation would mean leaving the club.

“We need to recruit the right manager so we come straight back up. That’s the plan.”

After Heckingbottom left for Yorkshire rivals Leeds United, Reds fans wanted Mick McCarthy to take over.

The ex-Barnsley player was under contract with Ipswich Town, but he left Portman Road a few weeks ago.

He could drop down to League One to try and help his home-town club return to the second tier. He has talked down rumours of a return to Sunderland to help them do the same and could be eying the Oakwell hot-seat.

The Reds have ample time to make an appointment, after being forced into a quick decision when Heckingbottom left.